Department of Homeland Security has finalized the alien registration rule, ensuring no new, additional requirements for H-1B visa holders

The Department of Homeland Security has finalized its alien registration rule, clarifying that most H-1B visa holders and other authorized foreign nationals with unexpired Form I-94s are already considered properly registered and do not need to submit new online registrations.

The rule, which implements a provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act, requires certain noncitizens to register with the U.S. government. However, DHS determined that individuals who have been issued an unexpired Form I-94, including H-1B visa holders, are already registered and face no additional requirements.

The final rule does not impose new filing obligations on H-1B visa holders or other nonimmigrants who already have valid documentation. DHS emphasized that the rule is intended to streamline existing processes and ensure compliance with registration requirements without creating new burdens.

The regulation applies to certain noncitizens who have not previously registered, such as those who entered the U.S. without inspection or who have not been issued a Form I-94. For these individuals, DHS will provide a process to register online.